Greater LA

More new moms in LA are deciding to eat their placentas. But why? And what’s the best way to do it? Patricia Krenwinkel, a follower of Charles Manson who was found guilty in the murders of Sharon Tate and others, has been recommended for parole by a California panel. Mariachi Arcoiris is the first LGBTQ+ mariachi band in the world. Its founder talks about representing both the LGBTQ+ community and the Mexican community.

Rufus Wainwright will play at The Ford Theatre in LA on June 14 to perform songs from his new album: “Rufus Does Judy at Capitol Records.” Zipper merging means switching lanes late — fully using both lanes and taking turns moving over when the lane ends. It’s gained endorsements from 34 states, but remains a controversy in California.

For generations, Catholic schools have represented a pathway to the middle class for immigrants. But thousands have closed, the latest in Boyle Heights. A feud between PIMCO founder Bill Gross and neighbors involving a large glass sculpture and the Gilligan’s Island theme song was finally settled. Maybe. This year’s list of 50 best bars in North America includes three from LA: Genever in Historic Filipinotown, Death & Co. in downtown LA, and Thunderbolt in Echo Park.

Local atheist volunteers started taking down illegally posted religious signs in public places less than a year ago. Now their plunders and crowdsourced maps are gaining traction. Republicans are attempting to retake control of the House of Representatives, and November will bring several closely-watched races for LA and OC seats.  This week, KCRW’s Young Creators Project is highlighting the work of two visual artists: Cici Apitz, a senior student at Redondo Union High School, and Kaia King-Hall, a 20-year-old from Venice.

Record inflation means the prices Angelenos pay for locally-made food are headed in one direction — up. Businesses that serve the budget-conscious really notice. And looking to November, Rick Caruso and Karen Bass both say they’re in good positions to win as LA mayor, while political watchers say Alex Villanueva will have a tough fight to remain sheriff.

As COVID rises, a restaurant server in Burbank says customers are pressuring her to remove her mask, but she doesn’t qualify for health insurance due to work limited hours. In the volunteer-run West Adams bookstore called All Power Books, neighbors receive food, clothes and community. Now they face an uncertain future. This week, KCRW’s Young Creators Project is highlighting the work of two visual artists: Minnie Learner from Polytechnic High School, and Arianna Louie from South High School.

Wildfire-prone communities can earn better insurance coverage and discounts if they work to prevent wildfires. But it takes time and money that some poorer places don’t have. The LA County sheriff’s race has been confusing for many. KCRW goes over the nine candidates, their endorsements, and policies. In the primary election, Orange County will elect new local supervisors, and members to the State Assembly. What policies could change if Democrats take control of the OC Board of Supervisors?

For its 100th anniversary, the secluded San Simeon retreat of publisher William Randolph Hearst is celebrating architect Julia Morgan with a new tour. Actor Pepe Serna has appeared in “Scarface,” “Man from Reno,” “The Jerk,” and more. A documentary about him, “Pepe Serna: Life is Art,” will premiere at the Latino Film Festival in LA on June 4. The new exhibition called “Your Perfect Plastic Heart” focuses on the female body and exploitation of nature. The show “it’s not My Music” suggests that music belongs to everyone.

The LA Phil’s festival, “Power to the People!,” focuses on the role that artists play in advancing social change. Conductor Gustavo Dudamel says he wants people to be “united by the message of art.” LA’s favorite cougar, P-22, has risen to fame over the last decade or so. Miguel Ordeñana first caught him on camera roaming Griffith Park in 2012.

Southern California bird rescues are dealing with an influx of sick or injured brown pelicans. No one knows why, but many birds appear to be starving. Water restrictions are set to take effect on June 1 for many Southern Californians. They apply to lawns, swimming pools, car washing, and more. KCRW breaks down the rules. Shorten showers to five minutes, don’t let the faucet run while brushing your teeth, rethink what you eat and what your yard looks like. These are some tips to conserve water.